2008 Robin K. Clarksburg Chenin Blanc

About This Wine

Clarksburg provides the backbone for California's production of Chenin Blanc grapes.

It has been that way for decades, a fact that prompted veteran wine scribe Gerald Asher to describe this "oasis" in the Sacramento River Delta as "California's Vouvray." Indeed, it's that classic dry style of Vouvray and the Loire that is mirrored in the 2008 Robin K. Chenin Blanc.

Most of the grapes for this wine were grown at Wilson Farms, where Ken Wilson and his family have been farming through three generations. They work closely with vintners to assure that their grapes are harvested precisely at the desired sugar level.

Robin K. then ferments those crushed grapes in stainless steel tanks over a period of about six weeks — until the sugar level is down to 0.5%. Then the fermentation is stopped, resulting in a dry-by-definition but "fruit-sweet" wine that's impossible to resist. The 2008 Robin K. is another feather in the cap for the Clarksburg appellation.

About Chenin Blanc

Native of Loire valley in France. Grapes have high acidity and need plenty of sun to ripen. The foundations of great long-lived whites, such as Vouvray. In South Africa and California can give soft, fruity wines with notes of melon, peach and citrus.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:100% Chenin Blanc
• Grape Source:Clarksburg AVA in California's Sacramento River Delta Area
• Aromas & Flavors:Lemon Oil, Lime, Green Apple, Melon & Tangerine
• When to Drink:Now Through 2010
• Food Pairing Suggestionshellfish, white meats, or spicy fare.

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